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Achalasia, status post myotomy

Medical ConditionAdverse effects

Abstract

About 2 years post lower esophageal sphincterotomy for achalasia, this 35-year-old female suffered from general dyspepsia associated with difficulty falling asleep. She used both inhaled and ingested marijuana daily in small amounts which relieved her symptoms without the need of additional medications.

Symptoms

Postprandial cramps, frequent nausea, general dyspepsia

Gender

Female

Age

35-44

Brief history and target symptomatology

35-year-old female social worker, married, two teenagers at home, employed full-time. Underwent Heller myotomy for achalasia. Esophagram six weeks postop showed good distensibility of the esophagus, and quick emptying. Postprandial cramps and frequent nausea started in the postoperative period and continue 15 months postop.

Previous and current conventional therapies

The patient was treated with Protonix and Pepcid following Heller myotomy. She no longer takes those medicines and uses cannabis instead.

Clinical response to Cannabis

Relief of GI discomfort and of associated sleep disorder.

Additional Comments

According to NORML ( Main » Library » Health Reports » Recent Research on Medical Marijuana » Gastrointestinal Disorders): "Preclinical studies demonstrate that activation of the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors exert biological functions on the gastrointestinal tract.[6] Effects of their activation in animals include suppression of gastrointestinal motility,[7] inhibition of intestinal secretion,[8] reduced acid reflux,[9] and protection from inflammation,[10] as well as the promotion of epithelial wound healing in human tissue.[